informal expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "informal expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a phrase or term that is casual and not typically used in formal writing or speech. Example: "The phrase 'gonna' is an informal expression often used in casual conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

This is an informal expression which means 'extremely tired'.

BBC

If you use the informal expression 'to teach someone a lesson', what does it mean?

BBC

Before addressing the objection from extrinsic properties, it is important to note an ambiguity in the informal expression of the quantifier account.

SEP

This informal expression is thought to come from the theatre and it refers to performances given by actors who had to learn their lines quickly while waiting in the wings.

BBC

"I'm really sorry that I shouted at you the other day". Another informal expression you might hear is excuse me اعذرني, or a more formal expression is I beg your pardon المعذرة.

BBC

While social media (ahem, Twitter), SMS, chat rooms, etc. have made shorthand, abbreviations, LOLs and informal expression far more acceptable, any employer will tell you that they won't hire people who can't write and don't have a firm grasp on basic grammar rules.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Linguist Gretchen McCulloch described emojis as a new "fourth quadrant" of communication; speech has both formal and informal expressions, and now writing has an informal version.

The Guardian - Tech

It consists of nine small parts told in the skaz form — a Russian oral tradition first described in the late nineteen-tens by the Russian scholar Boris Eikhenbaum as "a literary mode inclined toward the informal expressions of oral speech by a simple rural narrator".

The New Yorker

Address strangers and authority figures with formal expressions (using vous), and use informal expressions only when speaking with your friends and family.

WikiHow

Until the 1960's, he maintains, informal cultural expression -- like the experimental prose of Beatnik writers -- was relegated to outsider status.

The New York Times - Books

Includes" Informal construction, Constants like 'ke','kar', Time expressions, Present participles, Hypothetical sentences, Compound postpositions, and 20 Rajar Karen Lessons.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "informal expression" to introduce a word or phrase that might not be widely known or accepted in standard usage.

Common error

Avoid using too many "informal expressions" in formal writing, as it can make your work appear unprofessional or less credible. Balance informal language with more precise and standard vocabulary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "informal expression" functions as a noun phrase that categorizes a particular type of language. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it refers to a term or phrase that is casual and not typically used in formal writing or speech. It's used to classify language based on its register.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

29%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "informal expression" is a phrase used to describe language that is casual and not suited for formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. Its primary function is to classify language, distinguishing between formal and informal registers. While most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, it's crucial to consider the audience and context when choosing between formal and "informal expressions". Overusing informal language in professional settings should be avoided to maintain credibility. Alternatives include "casual term" or "colloquial phrase", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Casual term

Emphasizes the casual nature of the word or phrase.

Colloquial phrase

Highlights regional or everyday speech.

Slang term

Indicates a very informal and often trendy expression.

Non-formal wording

Focuses on the absence of formality in the choice of words.

Common parlance

Refers to the way people ordinarily speak in a specific group or region.

Everyday language

Highlights the use of language in ordinary, daily situations.

Vernacular phrase

Implies the use of language specific to a particular region or community.

Layman's term

Suggests the expression is easily understood by non-experts.

Conversational expression

Focuses on its use in spoken dialogue.

Idiomatic expression

Highlights that the meaning cannot be derived from the literal words.

FAQs

What does "informal expression" mean?

An "informal expression" is a word or phrase used in casual conversation or writing, not typically found in formal contexts. It's often more relaxed and may include slang or colloquialisms.

How do I identify an "informal expression"?

Informal expressions often include slang, colloquialisms, or abbreviations. If an expression sounds too casual for a professional setting, it's likely an informal expression.

What are some examples of "informal expressions"?

Examples of informal expressions include "gonna" (instead of "going to"), "wanna" (instead of "want to"), and slang terms like "cool" or "awesome".

When should I avoid using "informal expressions"?

Avoid using informal expressions in formal writing, academic papers, business reports, or when communicating with someone in a position of authority. Use more formal language in these settings.